FirstNet Cites Progress But Suggests Contract Decision Will Slip Past Nov. 1 Target
CEO Mike Poth said FirstNet is making strides toward awarding a contract to build a national public-safety broadband network, but he indicated a decision won't be reached by a Nov. 1 target date. "We have made significant progress in the…
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evaluation process and are moving closer to a contract award," he said in a blog post Thursday. Poth said FirstNet accomplished many tasks needed to award the contract ahead of schedule, including by issuing a request for proposals (RFP) in January, answering hundreds of questions about its content, and evaluating proposals. "From the outset, FirstNet set an aggressive schedule for the procurement knowing that the timing of the award would depend on many factors given its significance and complexity, some of which are outside our control," he wrote. "This is a highly complex acquisition that requires the input and support of multiple agencies and entities; it is critical that all parties are thorough and follow the necessary processes so that FirstNet gets this right for public safety. With all of this in mind, FirstNet will continue to execute the acquisition process outlined in the RFP beyond the November 1st target date for the award." A public-safety consultant recently suggested the award schedule could slip (see 1610140041).